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About a dozen demonstrators with the Aamjiwnaang First Nation in Sarnia, Ont. blocked the CN line on their reserve Friday, Dec. 21 to protest the federal government's Bill C-45. They said they staged the impromptu blockade to support the thousands expected to participate in the Idle No More demonstration in Ottawa. (CATHY DOBSON, The Observer)

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Video footage of a Sarnia Police officer's act of goodwill at the ongoing Aamjiwnaang rail blockade is quickly spreading online.

Nearly 9,000 viewers and counting have watched the YouTube video, with hundreds of others from across the continent sharing the clip on social media sites like Twitter and Facebook.

The video features Sarnia Police Staff Sgt. Jeff Hodgson participating in a traditional drumming session inside a makeshift tent at the Williams Drive protest taking place at the First Nations reserve in support of the Idle No More movement.

“It was done to foster goodwill,” said Const. Heather Emmons, media relations officer for the Sarnia Police Service, noting that Hodgson had stopped by the blockade while on duty last week.

“And to build trust, rapport and friendship – with an understanding of their protest.

“This has been a peaceful protest; we've had no issues or problems.”

The group of a dozen or so protesters has been camped out at the CN rail spur line since Dec. 21.

Spokesperson Ron Plain said they're protesting in support of Attawapiskat First Nations chief Theresa Spence, who began her hunger strike Dec. 11 to force a meeting with First Nation leaders, Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the Governor General.

At issue is Bill C-45, which removes thousands of waterways from federal jurisdiction and would allow private corporations to buy reserve land.

Talks between Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley, Police Chief Phil Nelson, CN officials, and Aamjiwnaang Band Council members have been taking place on a daily basis, and a community meeting was held at the reserve Sunday evening an an attempt to find a peaceful resolution to the blockade.